Perceived Effect of Quarry Activities on the Health of Inhabitants of Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study assessed the perceived effect of quarry activities on the health of inhabitants in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 152 household heads around quarry sites. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using tables, means and standard deviation. Results showed that the mean age and monthly income of respondents were 48±15 years and ₦30,197.42±₦15,204.14, respectively. More than half of the respondents were males (55.9%), had primary education (57.2%), and resided within 1 km of active quarry sites (61.8%). Frequent stone crushing ( = 3.39), drilling ( = 3.38), and blasting ( = 3.37) resulted in air ( = 2.82), noise ( = 2.80), and water ( = 2.78) pollution. Respondents reported high negative health impacts, including psychological stress (x̄ = 2.89), sleep disturbance (x̄ = 2.78), catarrh ( = 2.74), and eye irritation ( = 2.73). Coping strategies included covering food and water ( = 3.91), seeking clinical treatment ( = 3.89), and using alternative water sources ( = 3.89).  The study concluded that quarrying poses serious health hazards, requiring the enforcement of buffer zones by the government.